Peripheral neuropathy (PN) affects many Americans in many different ways. Whether a patient has sensory, motor or autonomic neuropathy (and, in many cases, a patient may have a combination), the resulting peripheral nerve damage brings with it direct functional ramifications. Functional problems are difficulties patients face in living their life, making daily activities more difficult, impaired or even impossible. When encountering functional difficulties, a patient’s quality of life can often be improved by working with a physical therapist (PT). Most physical therapists work together with physicians to care for their patients. Doctor referrals for physical therapy are required by most insurance companies and are most helpful when provided by a specialist treating a particular condition. For neuropathy patients, the best referral comes from a neurologist well-versed in diagnosing and treating peripheral neuropathy. A good neurologist will take an extensive medical history to identify risk factors associated with neuropathy, using this along with other tests to aid in a diagnosis. Similarly, a good physical therapist will utilize a complete history to gain insight into the person being treated, not relying on only the diagnosis. The physical therapist will identify functional deficits through the use of questionnaires, outcome scales, and objective clinical tools and measures. Expert therapists will demonstrate evidence-based practice to identify, measure, treat, and reassess the patient’s baseline and subsequent functional levels.

Finding an expert clinician is crucial to maximizing your medical and rehabilitation potential. Ask your neurologist if you have any of the following signs or symptoms that may be addressed with therapy:

Pain

Weakness

Numbness

Hypersensitivities

Gait abnormalities

Endurance deficits

Motion limitations

Balance impairments

Problems moving in bed

Bracing and/or orthotic needs

Joint stiffness or contractures

A good neurologist will be familiar with the potential for therapy to help neuropathy patients. It will often be unclear whether or not a particular patient can benefit from physical therapy; however, an evaluation by an expert therapist and subsequent treatment poses no risk to the patient, and can only potentially help. Many patients may not have peripheral neuropathy as their only ailment. A physical therapist with extensive experience treating neuropathy patients will be able to formulate a personalized treatment plan so the neuropathy will not be exacerbated. Your neurologist can write a prescription for physical therapy evaluation and help you find an experienced physical therapist. The neurologist may recommend medical treatment aimed either directly at the pathology or indirectly at the symptoms of the disease. The physical therapist may utilize a direct approach, attacking the problem leading toward the functional deficit, or work indirectly, circumventing the underlying problem and focusing on a compensatory strategy. A good physical therapist will utilize all available equipment, modalities, and therapeutic exercise to aid in every patient’s functional progress. Each patient may react differently to these therapeutics; careful progression over time will prove to be fundamental in successful treatment. Therapists may draw from the following range of equipments and therapeutic modalities to provide each patient with the best chance of pain-free, independent functionality:

Skilled soft tissue techniques

Peripheral and spinal mobilizations

Thermal modalities

Electrical stimulation

Ultrasound

Vibration platforms

Near infrared phototherapy

Balance systems and force plates

Individualized therapeutic exercise

Functional activities

Seeing a specialized neurologist and expert physical therapist can help give each patient a chance at the most positive outcome for functional improvements. Yet, even with the greatest care, not every patient achieves the level of function they desire. Nonetheless, as an empowered patient, you have to make every effort to fully live your life by accessing the best comprehensive treatment program possible.